Navigating Questions on Disability: What to Say When Asked About Your Daily Activities

When asked about your daily activities, especially if you or someone you know receives Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it is important to provide honest and concise answers while protecting your privacy. This guide will help you navigate these situations by providing tips and advice on what to say and how to respond.

Who is Asking and Are You Obligated to Answer?

When someone inquires about your daily activities, it is essential to understand that you have no legal obligation to answer. Whether it's a friend, a neighbor, or a stranger, it is your choice to share information about your circumstances. However, it is often a good practice to avoid mentioning that you are receiving SSDI or SSI to protect your privacy.

Providing a General Description of Your Daily Activities

When describing your daily activities, it is helpful to provide a general description of what you do most of the day. People understand that daily routines may vary, so it is important to give them an idea of a typical day. This can include the frequency of appointments or special activities.

For example, you might say, 'I spend most of my day doing light household chores and engage in therapeutic activities, such as attending therapy sessions twice a week. Once a month, I have appointments outside the home.' It is important to be honest and specific, mentioning any irregular activities that occasionally occur.

Working with a Disability Lawyer

Although providing comprehensive information about your daily activities is a good practice, it is crucial to seek assistance from a qualified disability lawyer. They can offer expert guidance and help strengthen your SSDI or SSI application. A lawyer can help you compile a detailed and accurate profile of your medical struggles and their impact on your daily life.

When preparing for your discussion with the lawyer, it is recommended to:

Create a list of daily struggles and the impact they have on your life. List instances when these problems occur and how often they happen. Identify problems that are inconsistent in nature, as they can make it difficult to work. Document how long you have been dealing with these issues and the steps you have taken with your doctor to address them. Obtain a letter from your doctor explaining their evaluation and their opinion that you are unlikely to recover and unable to perform basic tasks.

These steps will help you present a clear and detailed picture of your situation to the disability evaluator or adjudicator.

Conclusion

Preparing to answer questions about your daily activities can be challenging, but with the right approach and support from a disability lawyer, you can navigate these discussions effectively. Remember to protect your privacy while providing honest and detailed responses. By taking these steps, you can improve your chances of a successful application for SSDI or SSI.